In one of the most anticipated games of the season, the Toronto Raptors face the San Antonio Spurs for the first time since Kawhi Leonard and DeMar DeRozan were traded for one another. In their last game, Toronto beat the Utah Jazz while San Antonio defeated the Celtics.

Last season, the clubs split their two matches. The Spurs hold the all-time record having bested the Raptors in 32 of their 44 matches.

Toronto Raptors

Although Leonard is quiet and often hard to read to suggest this isn’t the most anticipated game of his season would be naive.

Coincidentally, he delivered a career-high 45 points versus Utah (the top-ranked defense in the past 10 games) leading up to the Spurs contest.

In his postgame interview Leonard said he was looking forward to the match stating “it will be fun”. Leonard might feel differently once the Spurs fans weigh in, but the superstar seems to be buoyed by actions of this nature.

For example, while Utah trotted to the line 19 times in the first half Leonard was repeatedly fouled but got just 3 free throws for his aggressiveness. That changed dramatically in the second half when Leonard pulled out his best MVP-esque effort.

Pascal Siakam also posted a career-best 28 points along with 10 rebounds.

Kyle Lowry underwent injections to his back to address inflammation and pain so is likely to miss this contest versus his BFF. Jonas Valanciunas (dislocated thumb) remains out at least until mid-January.

San Antonio Spurs

No doubt there will be mixed emotions in San Antonio especially fans who felt Leonard could’ve dealt with his departure better. Not to be forgotten is the three other players involved in the trade. Danny Green will likely receive an ovation.

As for the Spurs side of the equation, DeMar DeRozan circled this date as soon as schedules were released. He will be amped to remind the Raptors of what they lost and fans shouldn’t be surprised if he delivers his best effort of the season.

Jakob Poeltl will be happy to see his BFF Pascal Siakam and maybe they’ll even have time for a Yak & Skills post game show.

Rudy Gay (wrist) is questionable. Lonnie Walker (knee) is expected back soon. Dejounte Murray (knee) is lost for the season.

NBA Betting Trends:

Spurs are 7-3 in last 10 head to head contests

Spurs are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 head to head meetings

The over-under is 6-4 in team’s last 10 head to head matchups

Free Toronto Raptors vs. San Antonio Spurs NBA Prediction:

Expect both star players involved in the trade to bring their A games and each of their squads to want to help their new teammates get the victory.

4* Free NBA Betting Pick: Take Raptors and points

The Raptors possess an impressive 11-4 record versus Western teams but without Lowry have struggled offensively. Both squads are solid defensively and have each improved recently. San Antonio possesses the most efficient perimeter scoring but the Raptors defend the arc at an elite level.

Ultimately, this match may come down to which star imposes his will.

NBA Free Score Prediction: Raptors 111 – Spurs 107

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About Tamberlyn Richardson

The Queen of the NBA is based in Toronto, Canada, The Managing Editor of Sixteen Wins A Ring. In addition, she is the Editor of Thunderous Intentions, an OKC Thunder site and a featured columnist for ESPN True Hoop Affiliate, Raptors Republic. Aside from her written work she hosts a podcast - Tamberlyn’s Tip-Off. Stay tuned for winning NBA predictions night after night!

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